Discover the Benefits of “Me Time” for Good Health: Learn What, How, and Why it Matters

Have you taken yourself out on a date ever? A special date where you go all by yourself?! If the answer is yes, you already know how impactful “Me time” can be and if it sounds alien to your dictionary then I am sure this is the thing you are seeking!

“Me time” basically means sneaking out a few moments from your hectic day where you shut down all the chaos and focus your energy to recover, recoup, regenerate, and reconnect with your inner self. 

Also Read: 13 Powerful tips to overcome negative thoughts

Take some me time

The important thing here is one should know how to sneak out of time. We are always chained to something or the other, an important meeting, piled up office work, duties of children, or responsibilities of life! 

The trick is understanding and acknowledging the importance of “me time”, prioritizing it, and respecting the space. If you think juggling multiple tasks can make you successful and give you happiness then here is a fact for you!

Spending a few moments in solitude can be more powerful than even sitting with the most successful person in the world! 

So, before you say I don’t have ‘time for myself’ think again! Because it does not matter how busy you are, you can always make time for yourself. It’s all about prioritizing “you and your needs”; just like the air hostess announces in the flight, “Help yourself before helping others”. 

How to find time for me time?

Most of us can find time the moment we decide to put down our gadgets. Digital detox is something millennials need to practice. I am not talking about going full ‘zero modes’ on social media but taking an hour or so to live your real life rather than weaving a virtual one.

If you are entangled in work, try taking a short break from your desk and go to a place vacant and undisturbed. Eat your lunch in peace or go for a walk after the office. Take time to play your favorite instrument or indulge in your favorite sport. Anything that gives you sole happiness is ‘me time done right!’

For mothers who find no brakes in their day, sneak out time when their baby sleeps or when they are off your grid. Delegate work, share the load and if nothing helps, let the toys remain on the floor while you take a moment to breathe in and sink it all.

Kids and students too need ‘me time’. Away from the stress of undone homework and exam results, the chatters of the classroom or the chaos of the family, they need to spend time reading, painting, imagining, and weaving stories that might one day get published as best-selling novels!

But why is it so important to spend time alone?

1. The ‘Wow’ Factor

You can’t be pouring all your energies and expect it to refill on its own. Yes, sleeping and eating definitely feed your body and mind but what about your soul and spirit? When your soul and spirit is depleted your interest starts wearing off even from the things that you really enjoyed. The ‘wow’ factor wanes off and that’s when it starts to irk you, nag you and stress you out.

2. Healthier Relations

Studies at the University of Michigan have found that lack of privacy or ‘me time’ is a bigger cause of unhappy marriage than lack of sex. As already said you can never pour from an empty cup. Your relations demand energy, care, and love. Sparing a few moments of ecstasy and rejuvenation, filling the fuel mentally, emotionally, and spiritually can bestow us with greater patience and a positive attitude. This helps enormously in becoming a better parent, spouse, and partner. 

3. Health Benefits

‘Me time’ helps us to unwind and unload the stress. It reboots the brain which results in improved concentration, better productivity, clear thinking, increased problem-solving skills, and better decision-making. It gives a small window of self-discovery which can unveil bigger aspirations in life thus redirecting us on the path to success. 

Apart from this the long list of benefits include preventing heart problems, obesity, diabetes, headaches, gastrointestinal problems, compromised immunity, and even premature death. It deals well with stress and its related problems like mental fatigue, insomnia, confusion, depression, anxiety, and increased irritability. 

Final takeaway

“Me time” or personal time refers to the time that an individual takes for themselves, away from the demands and distractions of daily life. It is a crucial aspect of self-care and can have significant positive outcomes on an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health.  Two study outcomes that demonstrate the importance of “me time” for every individual.

Improved stress management

A study conducted by the American Psychological Association found that chronic stress is one of the most significant health issues facing Americans today. Chronic stress has been linked to a range of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and depression. One way to manage stress is by taking regular “me time” to engage in activities that bring relaxation and calmness.

Research has shown that engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation can reduce cortisol, the hormone associated with stress, and increase serotonin, the hormone associated with feelings of happiness and well-being. Therefore, taking regular “me time” can help individuals manage their stress levels, leading to better physical and mental health outcomes.

Increased productivity

Contrary to popular belief, taking time away from work to engage in personal activities can actually increase productivity. A study conducted by the Harvard Business Review found that employees who took regular breaks during the workday had higher levels of job satisfaction and were more productive.

Moreover, taking regular “me time” can help individuals recharge their energy and creativity. When individuals are constantly focused on work or other responsibilities, it can lead to burnout and a lack of motivation. However, taking time for personal activities can help individuals feel more inspired and motivated, leading to better performance in their work and other areas of their life.

In conclusion, “me time” is an essential aspect of self-care that can have significant positive outcomes on an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health. Through improved stress management and increased productivity, taking time for personal activities can lead to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.

References

1. American Psychological Association. (2017). Stress in America: The State of Our Nation. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2016/state-nation.pdf
2. Kirschner, P. A., & Van Rooij, S. W. (2018). The myths of the digital native and the multitasker. Teaching and Teacher Education, 70, 89-96. doi: 10.1016/j.tate.2017.11.006
3. Toker, S., & Biron, M. (2012). Job burnout and depression: Unraveling their temporal relationship and considering the role of physical activity. Journal of Applied Psychology, 97(3), 699-710. doi: 10.1037/a0026914
4. Trougakos, J. P., Hideg, I., Cheng, B. H., & Beal, D. J. (2014). Lunch breaks unpacked: The role of autonomy as a moderator of recovery during lunch. Academy of Management Journal, 57(2), 405-421. doi: 10.5465/amj.2012.0194

Conclusion

It’s not selfish neither foolish to spend time alone doing things you always wanted to do. Be it reading a book, playing a sport, taking a stroll, exercising or just meditating. Only once you discover how awesome you are, you will know how addictive this “me time” can be.